NAHSS: On a journey of discovery
By Cas Klatte | Delegate NAHSS 2017, Hong Kong
At the end of February (2017) I received the message that I was one of the lucky students who could participate in the 2017 edition of NAHSS. I had registered because I wanted to spend my summer holidays doing something interesting and useful. I was also very curious about the dynamics and opportunities that can be found in China. This program seemed like a very good way to learn more about this rapidly growing region.
The programme started in the Netherlands, where we were introduced to our project and project team during the 'kick-off weekend'. Together with seven others, I did a project for the Nationale Nederlanden in which we investigated how companies in Hong Kong keep their staff vital and motivated. A very interesting and relevant topic for us, which we immediately started working on in the Netherlands. We also received training from Dutch companies during several days in the Netherlands that focused on teamwork and personal development.
Cas in Shanghai
Hong Kong
On June 24, 2017, we flew to Hong Kong with a group of 32 students from all Dutch universities, where we would spend about five weeks. On Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday we took courses at The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK). These days were fairly intensive, but you often had time to have lunch together during the break and you could spend the evenings at leisure. We use the remaining four days of each week to get to know Hong Kong in every possible way. We regularly had company visits, including at ABN AMRO in the International Commerce Center.
Company visits
The company visits were a fun way to get to know the business community in Hong Kong and it was also interesting to speak to the expats who were active here during the subsequent drinks. Various cultural activities were also organized for us and we had enough free time to explore the beautiful nature, the city and the nightlife of Hong Kong. After these intensive five weeks we learned a lot about Hong Kong in ways that would otherwise not have been possible; a very special experience.
Following the programme in Hong Kong, the Business Week took place in Shanghai, where we concluded this NAHSS edition together with all 100 students. During this week we visited many interesting companies, explored the city and worked on our project. In the evening we often went to rooftop bars and clubs with large groups, so there was a good balance between work and relaxation.
Company visit at ABN AMRO
I hope this short story has given you a better idea of the NAHSS. I thought it was an unforgettable experience that brought me a lot. If you have any questions or would like more information, you can always send me an email: klattecm@gmail.com.